WO2024136466A1 - Battery pack and device comprising same - Google Patents

Abstract

A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: battery modules including a battery cell stack, which includes a plurality of battery cells, and a module frame, which accommodates the battery cell stack and has an opening formed at one surface thereof; and a plurality of HV connection assemblies for electrically connecting the battery modules that neighbor each other, wherein the battery module includes a terminal bus bar connected to at least one from among electrode leads of the battery cells, the HV connection assembly and the terminal bus bar, which is included in the battery modules that neighbor each other, are connected to each other through the opening, and the space between the HV connection assembly and the opening is sealed.

Description

Battery packs and devices containing them

Cross-Citation with Related Application(s)

This application is related to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0181906 dated December 22, 2022, Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0031738 dated March 10, 2023, and Korean Patent Application No. 10- dated December 19, 2023. The benefit of priority based on No. 2023-0185439 is claimed, and all content disclosed in the document of the relevant Korean patent application is incorporated as part of this specification.

The present invention relates to a battery pack and a device including the same, and more specifically, to a battery pack and a device including the same with improved cooling performance, improved sealing performance, and space efficiency.

As technology development and demand for mobile devices increase, the demand for secondary batteries as an energy source is rapidly increasing. Accordingly, much research is being conducted on secondary batteries that can meet various needs.

Secondary batteries are attracting much attention as an energy source not only for mobile devices such as mobile phones, digital cameras, and laptops, but also for power devices such as electric bicycles, electric vehicles, and hybrid electric vehicles.

Recently, as the need for high-capacity secondary battery structures has increased, including the use of secondary batteries as energy storage sources, the demand for battery packs with a medium to large module structure that aggregates battery modules with multiple secondary batteries connected in series/parallel is increasing. .

Meanwhile, when a battery pack is constructed by connecting a plurality of battery cells in series/parallel, a battery module is composed of at least one battery cell, and other components are added using at least one battery module to form a battery pack. The configuration method is common.

Since the battery cells that make up these medium-to-large battery modules are composed of secondary batteries that can be charged and discharged, such high-output, large-capacity secondary batteries generate a large amount of heat during the charging and discharging process. In this case, heat from multiple battery cells is added up in a small space, causing the temperature to rise quickly and severely. In other words, in the case of battery modules with multiple battery cells stacked and battery packs equipped with these battery modules, high output can be obtained, but it is not easy to remove heat generated from the battery cells during charging and discharging. If the heat dissipation of the battery cell is not performed properly, the battery cell deteriorates faster, its lifespan is shortened, and the possibility of explosion or ignition increases.

Moreover, battery modules included in vehicle battery packs are frequently exposed to direct sunlight and may be placed in high temperature conditions such as summer or desert areas. Additionally, because multiple battery modules are deployed intensively to increase the vehicle's driving range, flame or heat generated from one battery module can easily spread to neighboring battery modules, ultimately leading to ignition or explosion of the battery pack itself. You can.

In addition, the battery pack is heavy because it is composed of a combination of multiple battery modules, and is unsuitable for loading multiple batteries in a vehicle such as a car, so there is a need to improve energy density.

Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a conventional battery pack. Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the battery pack of Figure 1.

Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the conventional battery pack 10 includes a lower pack frame 11 on which a plurality of battery modules 1 are mounted, and an upper pack frame located on top of the battery module 1 ( 12) and an internal beam 13 that defines a location where the battery module 1 is mounted within the battery pack 10.

In this way, when the battery module 1 is mounted in the battery pack 10, the energy density of the battery pack 10 is reduced due to the internal beam 13 that partitions the battery modules 1, so that it is necessary for devices, etc. There was a problem that a greater number of battery packs 10 had to be provided in order to meet efficiency. Additionally, due to the weight of the battery pack 10, there was a limit to the number of battery packs 10 that could be provided in the device. Accordingly, in order to reduce the weight of the battery pack 10 and simultaneously increase the energy density of the battery pack 10, there was a need to install a greater number of battery modules 1 into the battery pack 10.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of one of the battery modules included in the battery pack of FIG. 2.

Referring to Figure 3, a conventional battery module (1) includes a battery cell stack (3) including battery cells (2) stacked in a preset direction, and a module frame (4) storing the battery cell stack (3). It includes, and the battery cell stack (3) is fixed and positioned on the thermally conductive resin layer (5) located on the lower surface of the module frame (4). In this case, a heat sink 6 located below the bottom of the module frame 4 may be provided to cool the heat generated from the battery cell stack 3.

However, since the heat sink 6 does not receive heat while being in direct contact with the battery cell stack 3, it has a disadvantage in that its cooling efficiency is not very high. In particular, an air gap may be formed between the bottom of the module frame 4 and the thermally conductive resin layer 5, which is a factor that hinders heat transfer. There is a need for a method to more effectively cool the battery module 1.

Additionally, in a conventional battery pack, the HV cable is connected to each module and the battery management system without a separate sealing member, so there is a problem in that the conventional HV cable connection method does not secure sealing performance. In addition, when applying a cooling method to improve the cooling performance of the battery pack, the conventional HV cable connection method needs to secure additional sealing performance, but this requires the addition of several components, which reduces space efficiency and increases manufacturing costs. There is a problem with doing this.

Summarizing the above, there is a need to develop a battery module and a battery pack containing the same with improved cooling efficiency and improved sealing performance and space efficiency.

The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery pack with improved cooling performance, improved sealing performance and space efficiency, and a device including the same.

The problem to be solved by the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned problems, and problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the attached drawings. .

A battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention includes battery modules including a battery cell stack including a plurality of battery cells and a module frame for storing the battery cell stack and having an opening formed on one side; and a plurality of HV connection assemblies electrically connecting neighboring battery modules, wherein the battery module includes a terminal bus bar connected to at least one of the electrode leads of the battery cells, and the HV connection assembly and the neighboring battery modules are connected to each other. The terminal bus bars included in one battery module are each connected through the opening, and a space between the HV connection assembly and the opening is sealed.

It may further include a BDU (battery disconnect unit) module that controls the electrical connection of the battery modules, and the HV connection assembly may be connected to the BDU module and the terminal bus bar of the battery module adjacent to the BDU module, respectively.

The HV connection assembly may include an HV cable for electrical connection, a bracket disposed in the opening, and a connection member passing through the bracket to connect the terminal bus bar and the HV cable.

It may further include a fixing member for fixing adjacent HV connection assemblies, and the fixing member may be coupled to the HV cable included in the HV connection assembly.

The HV connection assembly may further include a first sealing member positioned between the bracket and one surface of the module frame.

The HV connection assembly further includes an HV connector housing coupled to the bracket, and the connection member and the HV cable may be connected in an internal space formed by combining the bracket and the HV connector housing.

The connecting member includes a bus bar bolting member fastened to the terminal bus bar by a bolting connection, an adapter disposed on an upper part of the bus bar bolting member, and a pin member connecting the HV cable with the adapter and the bus bar bolting member. It can be included.

The upper part of the HV connector housing is open, the pin member is inserted into the upper part of the HV connector housing, and the HV connection assembly may further include an upper cap covering the upper part of the HV connector housing.

The HV connection assembly may further include a second sealing member located at a connection portion between the bracket and the HV connector housing.

The HV connection assembly may further include a third sealing member positioned between the HV cable and the HV connector housing.

The opening may be formed on the upper surface of the module frame.

The terminal bus bars included in the neighboring battery modules connected to the HV connection assembly may have different polarities.

The battery module can directly cool the plurality of battery cells by flowing an insulating coolant in the space inside the module frame.

It includes a bus bar frame positioned on the front and rear surfaces of the battery cell stack, wherein the bus bar frame has at least one slit through which the insulating coolant flows, and the insulating coolant flows through the at least one slit. It may flow in and out of the space inside the module frame.

A device according to another embodiment of the present invention may include the battery pack described above.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the cooling efficiency of a battery pack and a device including the same can be increased through direct cooling of the refrigerant to the battery cell.

The HV connection assembly is respectively connected to the terminal bus bar included in the neighboring battery modules through the opening, and is sealed between the HV connection assembly and the opening, thereby improving the sealing performance and space efficiency of the HV connection structure. This may increase.

The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the attached drawings.

Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a conventional battery pack.

Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the battery pack of Figure 1.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of one of the battery modules included in the battery pack of FIG. 2.

Figure 4 is a perspective view showing a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the battery module and HV connection assembly included in the battery pack of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a battery cell stack included in the battery module of FIG. 5.

Figures 7 and 8 are diagrams showing the battery cell stack of Figure 6 and a bus bar frame coupled to the front and back surfaces of the battery cell stack.

FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 8.

Figure 10 is a diagram showing the battery cell stack of Figure 6 being inserted into the front and rear of the module frame in the battery module of Figure 5.

Figures 11 to 14 are diagrams showing the HV connection assembly coupled to the battery module of Figure 5.

Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the HV connection assembly coupled to the battery module of Figure 5.

Hereinafter, with reference to the attached drawings, various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily practice the present invention. The invention may be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

In order to clearly explain the present invention, parts that are not relevant to the description are omitted, and identical or similar components are given the same reference numerals throughout the specification.

In addition, the size and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrarily shown for convenience of explanation, so the present invention is not necessarily limited to what is shown. In the drawing, the thickness is enlarged to clearly express various layers and regions. And in the drawings, for convenience of explanation, the thicknesses of some layers and regions are exaggerated.

In addition, throughout the specification, when a part is said to “include” a certain element, this means that it may further include other elements rather than excluding other elements, unless specifically stated to the contrary.

In addition, throughout the specification, when referring to “on a plane,” this means when the target portion is viewed from above, and when referring to “in cross-section,” this means when a cross section of the target portion is cut vertically and viewed from the side.

Below, a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

Figure 4 is a perspective view showing a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the battery module and HV connection assembly included in the battery pack of FIG. 4.

Referring to FIG. 4, the battery pack 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of battery modules 100, a side frame 1100 accommodating the plurality of battery modules 100, and electrical components. Includes an electrical unit 1500.

Additionally, the plurality of battery modules 100 may be aligned in one direction to form a battery module assembly. As an example, the plurality of battery modules 100 may be arranged and aligned in the width direction (x-direction) of the battery module 100. However, the arrangement direction of the plurality of battery modules 100 is not limited to this, and may be arranged in various other directions.

Referring to FIG. 4 , the side frame 1100 may include a first side frame 1110 and a second side frame 1150. Here, the first side frame 1110 may extend along the width direction of each battery module 100 of the plurality of battery modules 100. Additionally, the second side frame 1150 may extend along the longitudinal direction of the battery module 100.

In addition, when the plurality of battery modules 100 are arranged in one direction, the second side frame 1150 is coupled to both sides of the battery module assembly in which the plurality of battery modules 100 are aligned and arranged in one direction. , the first side frame 1110 may be coupled to the front and rear sides of the battery module assembly. However, it is not limited to this, and on the contrary, after the first side frame 1110 is coupled to the front and back sides of the battery module assembly, the second side frame 1150 may be coupled to both sides of the battery module assembly.

A fixing means is located at a portion where the first side frame 1110 and the second side frame 1150 come into contact with each other, so that the first side frame 1110 and the second side frame 1150 can be coupled to each other. As an example, the first side frame 1110 and the second side frame 1150 are each equipped with fixing means such as bolts and nuts, so that the first side frame 1110 and the second side frame 1150 are coupled to each other. You can. However, it is not limited to this, and the portions of the first side frame 1110 and the second side frame 1150 that come into contact with each other may be fixed to each other by a separate fastening method such as welding or adhesion.

Here, the side frame 1100 may be made of an insulating member. As an example, the side frame 1100 may be composed of an aluminum extrusion structure. As another example, the side frame 1100 may be made of a dissimilar metal bonding material such as clad metal, or may be a structure containing an insulating material such as airgel or Expanded Polypropylene (EPP) foam. there is. However, it is not limited to this, and the side frame 1100 can be used without limitation as long as it is made of an insulating material with a certain rigidity.

Accordingly, the battery pack 1000 according to this embodiment has side frames 1100 coupled to both sides and the front and back of a battery module assembly in which a plurality of battery modules 100 are aligned and arranged in one direction, thereby protecting the external environment. From this, the stability of the battery module 100 can be secured. In addition, the battery pack 1000 according to this embodiment omits separate frame members that can be located on the upper and lower surfaces of the battery module assembly, so that a pack-less structure can be realized, and energy density and space are reduced. It has the advantage of increasing efficiency.

Referring to FIG. 4, in the battery pack 1000 according to this embodiment, the electrical unit 1500 includes a battery disconnect unit (BDU) module that controls electrical connections between other electrical components and the battery modules 100. .

The BDU module is a member for controlling the electrical connection of the battery module 100 and can cut off power between the power conversion device and the battery module 100. The BDU module can secure the safety of the battery pack 1000 by turning off the power to the battery pack 1000 when a condition occurs where the current exceeds the set range.

Additionally, the BDU module may be electrically connected to each other through a plurality of battery modules 100 and a high voltage (HV) connection assembly 2000. That is, the HV connection assembly 2000 may be responsible for HV (high voltage) connection. Here, the HV connection is a connection that serves as a power source to supply power, and refers to the connection between battery cells or between battery modules.

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the battery pack 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a battery cell stack 110 (FIG. 6) including a plurality of battery cells 111 (FIG. 6) and a battery. Battery modules 100 including a module frame 200 that accommodates a cell stack 110 (FIG. 6) and has an opening 210 on one side; and a plurality of HV connection assemblies 2000 that electrically connect neighboring battery modules 100 to each other.

The module frame 200 may be a monoframe in the form of a metal plate whose upper, lower, and both sides are integrated. As another example, the module frame 200 may include a lower frame in the form of a metal plate whose upper surface and both sides are integrated, and an upper cover that covers the upper surface of the lower frame. As another example, the module frame 200 may be a frame in which two L-shaped frames are combined. As another example, the module frame 200 may be a frame with a 4-plate structure in which a top plate, a bottom plate, a left plate, and a right plate are combined. However, it is not limited to this, and any frame that can protect the internal components of the battery module 100 can be applied to the present embodiment.

Here, each component of the module frame 200 may be joined by welding or the like with corresponding edge portions in contact with each other, or may be fixed to each other through separate fastening members. Additionally, each component of the module frame 200 may be made of a metal material with a predetermined strength.

Referring to FIG. 5 , the module frame 200 may include an opening 210, and the opening 210 may be formed on the upper surface of the module frame 200. As an example, the opening 210 includes a first opening 211 and a second opening 215, and the first opening 211 and the second opening 215 are of the battery module 100. They may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the width direction. However, the number and location of the openings 210 are not limited to this and may vary depending on the number and location of the HV connection assembly 2000 and the terminal bus bars 330 (FIG. 7) that require electrical connection.

More specifically, the open portion 210 may include open holes 211h and 215h penetrating the upper surface of the module frame 200. As an example, the first opening 211 may include a pair of first open holes 211h, and the second opening 215 may include a pair of second open holes 215h. Here, the pair of first open holes 211h and the pair of second open holes 215h may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the width direction of the battery module 100. However, the number and location of the open holes 211h and 215h are not limited to this, and may vary depending on the number and location of the terminal bus bars 330 (FIG. 7) that require electrical connection with the HV connection assembly 2000. .

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the battery pack 1000 according to this embodiment has an HV connection assembly 2000 and the terminal bus bar 330 (FIG. 7) included in the neighboring battery modules 100 is open. Each may be connected through unit 210. Additionally, the HV connection assembly 2000 may be connected to the BDU module included in the electrical unit 1500 and the terminal bus bar 330 (FIG. 7) of the battery module 100 adjacent to the BDU module, respectively.

Here, the terminal bus bars 330 (FIG. 7) included in neighboring battery modules 100 connected to the HV connection assembly 2000 may have different polarities. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the HV connection assembly 2000 connects a terminal bus bar 330 (FIG. 7) having a positive electrode in one battery module 100 of neighboring battery modules 100 and a battery in the other battery. The terminal bus bar 330 (FIG. 7) having a negative electrode can be electrically connected to the module 100.

Additionally, the BDU module connected to the HV connection assembly 2000 and the terminal bus bar 330 (FIG. 7) included in the neighboring battery module 100 may have different polarities. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the HV connection assembly 2000 may electrically connect the positive electrode portion of the BDU module to the terminal bus bar 330 (FIG. 7) having the negative electrode in the neighboring battery module 100. In addition, in the opposite case, the HV connection assembly 2000 can electrically connect the negative electrode portion of the BDU module to the terminal bus bar 330 (FIG. 7) having the positive electrode in the neighboring battery module 100.

Accordingly, the battery pack 1000 according to this embodiment is electrically connected to the terminal bus bar 330 (FIG. 7) and the BDU module with the HV connection assembly 2000 through the opening 210 of the battery module 100. Since it can be connected, the HV connection method is relatively simple and assembly tolerance can be secured.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a battery cell stack included in the battery module of FIG. 5. Figures 7 and 8 are diagrams showing the battery cell stack of Figure 6 and a bus bar frame coupled to the front and back surfaces of the battery cell stack. FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 8.

The battery module 100 according to this embodiment can directly cool the battery cells 111 with an insulating coolant flowing in the space inside the module frame 200. More specifically, referring to FIGS. 5 and 8 , the battery module 100 may accommodate the battery cell stack 110 within the module frame 200 .

Here, referring to FIG. 6 , the battery cell stack 110 may include a plurality of battery cells 111 and at least one flow path spacer 113 interposed between adjacent battery cells 111. Additionally, the battery cell stack 110 may include an insulating plate 115 disposed on both sides of the battery cell stack 110. In addition, although not shown in FIG. 6, the battery cell stack 110 may further include a buffer pad interposed between adjacent battery cells 111. That is, the battery cell stack 110 may be formed by stacking the battery cells 111, flow path spacers 113, and insulating plates 115 in a vertically standing form on the ground (plane parallel to the X-Y plane). .

For example, the battery cell 111 is preferably a pouch-type battery cell. As an example, the battery cell 111 may be manufactured by storing the electrode assembly in a pouch case of a laminate sheet including a resin layer and an inner layer, and then heat-sealing the sealing portion of the pouch case. These battery cells 111 may be formed in a rectangular sheet-like structure. These battery cells 111 may be composed of a plurality, and the plurality of battery cells 111 are stacked so as to be electrically connected to each other to form the battery cell stack 110. Here, the number of battery cells 111 constituting the battery cell stack 110 may be adjusted depending on the case.

In addition, the flow path spacer 113 is interposed between adjacent battery cells 111 and may be provided with a coolant flow path through which at least a portion of the insulating coolant flowing into the module frame 200 can directly contact the battery cells 111. You can. Here, a plurality of coolant passages may be provided and may extend along the longitudinal direction of the passage spacer 113.

However, the battery module 100 according to another embodiment of the present invention may omit the flow path spacer 113, and the insulating coolant flowing into the module frame 200 is connected to the upper and lower portions of the battery cell stack 110. It can flow through the space between the module frames 200.

Accordingly, the battery module 100 according to this embodiment has the advantage that the insulating coolant can be directly cooled for the battery cell 111, and the cooling efficiency of the battery module 100 can be further improved.

Referring to FIGS. 5 to 8 , the battery module 100 according to this embodiment may further include a bus bar frame 300 located at the front and rear of the battery cell stack 110, respectively. Here, bus bars 310 and 330 that are electrically connected to electrode leads of the battery cells 111 included in the battery cell stack 110 may be located in the bus bar frame 300.

Additionally, the battery module 100 may further include an end plate 500 covering the bus bar frame 300. Accordingly, the end plate 500 can physically protect the battery cell stack 110 and other electrical components from external shock.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8 , the bus bars 310 and 350 may include a plurality of bus bars 310 and a pair of terminal bus bars 330. Here, the plurality of bus bars 310 are fixed on the bus bar frame 300 and are coupled to the electrode leads of the battery cells 111 drawn out through the electrode lead slits formed in the bus bar frame 300, thereby forming a plurality of bus bars 310. The battery cells 111 can be electrically connected to each other.

The pair of terminal bus bars 330 includes a first terminal bus bar 331 and a second terminal bus bar 335. Here, the pair of terminal bus bars 330 may be fixed on the bus bar frame 300 and coupled to the electrode leads of the battery cell 111 located at the outermost position among the plurality of battery cells 111. That is, the pair of terminal bus bars 330 function as high potential terminals and can be electrically connected to the HV connection assembly 2000. For example, the first terminal bus bar 331 and the second terminal bus bar 335 may have different polarities (positive or negative).

5, 7, and 8, one end of the terminal bus bar 330 includes a protrusion, and the protrusion may protrude from the bus bar frame 300 in a direction toward the end plate 500. there is. As an example, the first terminal bus bar 331 includes a first terminal bus bar protrusion 331P protruding from the bus bar frame 300 in a direction toward the end plate 500, and a second terminal bus bar ( 335) may include a second terminal bus bar protrusion 335P that protrudes from the bus bar frame 300 in a direction toward the end plate 500.

In addition, the protrusion formed on the terminal bus bar 330 may be fastened to the bolting members 410 and 420 by bolting. Here, the bolting members 410 and 420 include bus bar bolts 411 and 415 and bus bar nuts 421 and 425, as shown in FIG. 8.

More specifically, referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, a hole is formed penetrating the center of the first terminal bus bar protrusion 331P, and a first bus bar bolt 415 and a first bus bar are installed above and below the hole. The nut 425 may be fastened through a bolting connection. In addition, a hole is formed penetrating the center of the second terminal bus bar protrusion 335P, and the second bus bar bolt 411 and the second bus bar nut 421 can be fastened to the upper and lower portions of the hole through a bolting combination. there is.

However, it is not limited to this, and unlike FIGS. 8 and 9, the positions of the bus bar bolts 411 and 415 and the bus bar nuts 421 and 425 are changed so that the bolting combination is fastened. You can.

Additionally, the bus bar frame 300 may be formed with at least one slit 300H through which the insulating coolant flows. That is, in the bus bar frame 300, the insulating coolant may flow into and be discharged into the space inside the module frame through at least one slit (300H). In other words, at least one slit 300H may function as a passage that allows insulating coolant introduced from the outside to flow toward the battery cell stack 110. On the contrary, at least one slit 300H may function as a passage through which the insulating coolant flowing into the module frame 200 can be discharged to the outside.

As an example, at least one slit 300H may be formed at a position corresponding to the flow path spacer 113. Additionally, at least one slit (300H) may have a size corresponding to that of the flow path spacer (113).

As another example, in the battery module 100 according to another embodiment of the present invention, when the flow path spacer 113 is omitted, unlike FIG. 6, at least one slit 300H is formed in the battery cell stack 110. It may be formed at a position corresponding to the space between the upper and lower parts of and the module frame 200.

Accordingly, in the battery module 100 according to this embodiment, the insulating coolant for the battery cell 111 can easily flow into and out of the module frame 200, and the cooling efficiency of the battery module 100 can be further improved. There is an advantage to being able to do this.

Figure 10 is a diagram showing the battery cell stack of Figure 6 being inserted into the front and rear of the module frame in the battery module of Figure 5.

5, 6, and 10, in the battery module 100 according to this embodiment, a pair of battery cell stacks 110a and 110b are aligned along the longitudinal direction of the battery module 100. It can be included. At this time, the module frame 200 can accommodate a pair of battery cell stacks 110a and 110b.

Referring to FIG. 10, the front side of the first battery cell stack 110a and the back side of the second battery cell stack 110b may face each other. In addition, although not shown in FIG. 10, the terminal bus bar located on the front of the first battery cell stack 110a and the terminal bus bar located on the rear of the second battery cell stack 110b are located at the opening of the module frame 200. It may be electrically connected to the HV connection assembly 2000 through (210). More specifically, the bolting member fastened to the terminal bus bar located in the front of the first battery cell stack 110a and the bolting member fastened to the terminal bus bar located in the rear of the second battery cell stack 110b are the module frame 200 ) can be electrically connected to the HV connection assembly 2000 through the opening 210.

However, it is not limited to this, and the battery module 100 according to another embodiment may include one battery cell stack 110, or may include a plurality of two or more battery cell stacks 110. .

Accordingly, the battery pack 1000 according to this embodiment includes a plurality of battery cell stacks to increase energy density, and each battery cell stack 110 through the opening 210 of the battery module 100. Since the terminal bus bar 330 (FIG. 7) and the BDU module can be electrically connected to the HV connection assembly 2000, the HV connection method can be relatively simplified while ensuring assembly tolerance.

Figures 11 to 14 are diagrams showing the HV connection assembly coupled to the battery module of Figure 5. Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the HV connection assembly coupled to the battery module of Figure 5.

5 and 7, the HV connection assembly 2000 includes an HV cable 2200 for electrical connection, a bracket 2100 disposed in the opening 210, and a terminal bus that passes through the bracket 2100. It may include a connecting member connecting the bar 330 and the HV cable 2200.

More specifically, referring to FIGS. 5 and 11 , in the HV connection assembly 2000, the bracket 2100 may be placed and coupled to the opening 210 of the module frame 200. For example, as shown in FIG. 11 , the bracket 2100 may be placed and coupled to the first opening 211 . Hereinafter, the description will focus on the first opening 211, but the content described later regarding the second opening 215 may also be explained in the same way.

As an example, the bracket 2100 may include a fixing part 2130, a main body 2150, an extension part 2170, and a connection hole 2190. Here, the fixing part 2130 may be fixed to the first protrusion 211p formed in the first opening 211 through fitting or bolting. The extension part 2170 is a part extending from the main body 2150 toward the module frame 200. The extension part 2170 can be inserted into the first open hole 211h formed in the first open part 211. there is.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12 , when the bracket 2100 is coupled to the module frame 200, the adapter 2600 may be inserted into the connection hole 2190 of the bracket 2100. Here, the adapter 2600 may be electrically connected to the terminal bus bar 330 (FIG. 7) of the battery cell stack 110 accommodated inside the module frame 200. More specifically, the upper part of the bus bar bolting members 410 and 420 fastened to the terminal bus bar 330 (FIG. 7) by bolting has a first open hole 211h and a connection hole 2190 of the bracket 2100. It may be exposed to the outside. Here, the adapter 2600 may be disposed on the upper part of the bus bar bolting members 410 and 420 and electrically connected to the adapter 2600 and the bus bar bolting members 410 and 420.

As an example, referring to FIGS. 10 to 12, the first battery cell stack 110a and the second battery cell stack 110b are facing each other, and although not shown in detail in FIG. 10, the first battery cell stack (110a) The bus bar bolts 411a and 415a fastened to the terminal bus bar of 110a) and the bus bar bolts 411b and 415b fastened to the terminal bus bar of the second battery cell stack 110b may be positioned to intersect each other. At this time, as shown in Figure 11, the first bus bar bolt 415a of the first battery cell stack 110a and the second bus bar bolt 411b of the second battery cell stack 110b are connected to the first opening. It may be positioned to correspond to a pair of open holes 211h included in 211, respectively. However, it is not limited to this, and the above-described position may change depending on the position of the terminal bus bar of each battery cell stack.

Here, as shown in FIG. 12, the adapter 2600 is disposed on the top of the first bus bar bolt 415a of the first battery cell stack 110a, and the adapter 2600 is attached to the first battery cell stack 110a. It can be electrically connected to the first bus bar bolt 415a. In addition, although not shown in FIG. 12, the adapter 2600 can also be placed on the top of the second bus bar bolt 411b of the second battery cell stack 110b, so the adapter 2600 is attached to the second battery cell. It may be electrically connected to the second bus bar bolt 411b of the laminate 110b.

Additionally, referring to FIGS. 5, 13, and 14, the HV connection assembly 2000 further includes an HV connector housing 2300 coupled to the bracket 2100. More specifically, the HV connector housing 2300 covers the upper part of the bracket 2100, and the edge of the HV connector housing 2300 may be coupled to the bracket 2100. For example, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the top of the HV connector housing 2300 may be open, and an upper cap 2400 covering the top of the HV connector housing 2300 may be installed on the top of the HV connector housing 2300. can be located However, the shape of the HV connector housing 2300 is not limited to this, and any shape that can protect the bracket 2100 from the external environment and facilitate electrical connection of the HV connection assembly 2000 can be included in the present embodiment. there is.

Additionally, in the HV connection assembly 2000, the connection member and the HV cable 2200 may be connected in an internal space formed by combining the bracket 2100 and the HV connector housing 2300. Here, the connecting members include bus bar bolting members 410 and 420 fastened to the terminal bus bar 330 by bolting, adapters 2600 disposed on top of the bus bar bolting members 410 and 420, and HV It may include a pin member 2500 that connects the cable 2200 to the adapter 2600 and the bus bar bolting members 410 and 420.

For example, as shown in FIG. 13, when the bracket 2100 and the HV connector housing 2300 are combined, the pin member 2500 is inserted into the open upper part of the HV connector housing 2300, thereby forming the pin member 2500. Can connect the HV cable 2200 to the adapter 2600 and the bus bar bolting members 410 and 420.

Accordingly, in the battery pack 1000 according to this embodiment, neighboring battery modules 100 can be electrically connected to the HV connection assembly 2000 having the above-described structure, thereby improving the fixing force of the HV connection structure. there is. In addition, this HV connection assembly 2000 has the advantage of being able to effectively protect the HV connection structure from the external environment and ensuring stability against shock generated by vibration.

Additionally, referring to FIGS. 13 and 14 , the HV connection assembly 2000 may further include a fixing member 3000 that secures the adjacent HV connection assemblies 2000a and 2000b to each other. For example, both ends of the fixing member may have a clip shape, and each end of the fixing member may be coupled to adjacent HV connection assemblies 2000a and 2000b. More specifically, the fixing member 3000 may be coupled to the HV cable 2200 included in the HV connection assembly 2000. However, the shape of the fixing member is not limited to this, and any shape that can be easily coupled to the adjacent HV connection assemblies 2000a and 2000b can be included in the present embodiment.

Accordingly, in the battery pack 1000 according to this embodiment, adjacent HV connection assemblies 2000a and 2000b can be fixed to each other by the fixing member 3000, thereby protecting against shock generated by vibration according to the external environment. There is an advantage in that additional stability can be secured.

Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15 , in the battery pack 1000 according to this embodiment, the space between the HV connection assembly 2000 and the opening portion 210 may be sealed. More specifically, the HV connection assembly 2000 may include a first sealing member 4100 positioned between the bracket 2100 and one surface of the module frame 200. For example, as shown in FIG. 15 , the first sealing member 4100 may be located between the lower portion of the bracket 2100 and the opening portion 211 .

Additionally, the HV connection assembly 2000 may include a second sealing member 4200 located at a connection portion between the bracket 2100 and the HV connector housing 2300. More specifically, the second sealing member 4200 may be located between the top of the bracket 2100 and the inner surface of the HV connector housing 2300.

Additionally, the HV connection assembly 2000 may include a third sealing member 4300 located between the HV cable 2200 and the HV connector housing 2300. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, the HV connector housing 2300 may cover one end of the HV cable 2200, and the third sealing member 4300 may cover one end of the HV cable 2200. It may be located between the housing 2300 and the HV cable 2200.

For example, the sealing members 4100, 4200, and 4300 may be members such as gaskets, but are not limited thereto, and any member having sealing performance and heat resistance may be included in the present embodiment. As another example, the sealing members 4100, 4200, and 4300 may have an O-ring shape, but are not limited thereto, and any shape that can be easily coupled between each component may be included in the present embodiment.

Accordingly, the battery pack 1000 according to this embodiment includes at least one of the first sealing member 4100, the second sealing member 4200, and the third sealing member 4300, and the HV connection assembly 2000 ) and the module frame 200 and the sealing performance of the HV connection assembly 2000 itself can be improved. In addition, as previously described in FIGS. 6 to 8 , the battery module 100 according to the present embodiment allows the insulating coolant to flow inside the module frame 200, and the above-described sealing members 4100, 4200, and 4300. ) has the advantage of effectively preventing leakage and leakage of the insulating coolant.

A device according to another embodiment of the present invention includes the battery pack described above. These devices can be applied to transportation means such as electric bicycles, electric cars, and hybrid cars, but the present invention is not limited thereto and can be applied to various devices that can use battery modules and battery packs containing them, which are also applicable to the present invention. falls within the scope of invention rights.

Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications and improvements made by those skilled in the art using the basic concept of the present invention defined in the following claims can also be made. It falls within the scope of invention rights.

100: battery module

111: battery cell

113: Euro spacer

115: insulation plate

200: module frame

210: opening

300: Busbar frame

500: End plate

1000: Battery pack

1100: side frame

1500: Electrical Department

2000: HV Cable Assemblies

2100: Bracket

2130: Fixing part

2150: main body

2170: extension

2190: Connection hole

2200: HV cable

2300: HV connector housing

2400: Top cap

2500: Pin member

2600: adapter

3000: Fixing member

Claims (15)

1. Battery modules including a battery cell stack including a plurality of battery cells and a module frame for storing the battery cell stack and having an opening formed on one side; and

   It includes a plurality of HV connection assemblies that electrically connect neighboring battery modules to each other,

   The battery module includes a terminal bus bar connected to at least one of the electrode leads of the battery cells,

   The HV connection assembly and the terminal bus bars included in the neighboring battery modules are each connected through the opening,

   A battery pack in which a space between the HV connection assembly and the opening portion is sealed.
2. In paragraph 1:

   It further includes a BDU (battery disconnect unit) module that controls the electrical connection of the battery modules,

   The HV connection assembly is a battery pack that connects the BDU module and the terminal bus bar of the battery module adjacent to the BDU module, respectively.
3. In paragraph 1:

   The HV connection assembly,

   HV cable for electrical connection,

   A bracket disposed in the opening, and

   A battery pack including a connecting member passing through the bracket and connecting the terminal bus bar and the HV cable.
4. In paragraph 3,

   Further comprising a fixing member for fixing adjacent HV connection assemblies,

   A battery pack in which the fixing member is coupled to the HV cable included in the HV connection assembly.
5. In paragraph 3,

   The HV connection assembly further includes a first sealing member positioned between the bracket and one surface of the module frame.
6. In paragraph 3,

   The HV connection assembly further includes an HV connector housing coupled to the bracket,

   A battery pack in which the connection member and the HV cable are connected in an internal space formed by combining the bracket and the HV connector housing.
7. In paragraph 6:

   The connecting member is,

   A bus bar bolting member fastened to the terminal bus bar through a bolting connection,

   an adapter disposed on the top of the busbar bolting member, and

   A battery pack including a pin member connecting the HV cable to the adapter and the bus bar bolting member.
8. In paragraph 7:

   The upper part of the HV connector housing is open, and the pin member is inserted into the upper part of the HV connector housing,

   The HV connection assembly further includes an upper cap that covers the top of the HV connector housing.
9. In paragraph 6:

   The HV connection assembly further includes a second sealing member located at a connection portion of the bracket and the HV connector housing.
10. In paragraph 6:

    The HV connection assembly further includes a third sealing member positioned between the HV cable and the HV connector housing.
11. In paragraph 1:

    The opening portion is a battery pack formed on the upper surface of the module frame.
12. In paragraph 1:

    A battery pack in which the terminal bus bars included in the neighboring battery modules connected to the HV connection assembly have different polarities.
13. In paragraph 1:

    The battery module is a battery pack in which an insulating coolant flows in a space inside the module frame and directly cools the plurality of battery cells.
14. In paragraph 13:

    It includes a bus bar frame located on the front and back sides of the battery cell stack,

    The bus bar frame is formed with at least one slit through which the insulating coolant flows,

    A battery pack in which the insulating coolant flows in and out of the space inside the module frame through the at least one slit.
15. A device comprising the battery pack according to claim 1.

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